Te Ohu Pūniho Ora O Aotearoa NZOHA Conference 2025
Masterclasses: Thursday 26th June
Conference: Friday 27th and Saturday 28th June 2025
Where: Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
Early bird rate (available until 20th April 2025) - $599
Standard member rate (from 21st April - 16th June 2025) - $749
Students rate - $360
Non members rate - $1099
(Membership rates apply for DHAA and ADOHTA members - please contact us at contact@nzoha.org.nz)
Our 2025 conference will deliver cutting-edge insights, featuring renowned national and international speakers from across diverse professions.
We are also introducing a day of masterclasses on Thursday 26th June, which will be limited spaces.
The NZOHA conference is the perfect opportunity to network, exchange knowledge and speak with industry experts during the trade expo.
For Sponsorship and Exhibitor enquiries please contact Britta van Uden - britta@mtanz.org.nz / +64 21 122 6870
THE AGENDA
Masterclasses Agenda
Masterclasses have a capacity of 20 people and will only be available for conference attendees.
Thursday 26th June
10.00am - 1.00pm - Posterior Restorations a Predictable Approach - Paulette Smith
10.00am - 1.00pm - Advanced Techniques in Treating Periodontal Defects and Furcation Lesions - Tabitha Acret
10.00am -1.00pm - LA Tips and Techinque
12.30pm - 3.00pm - Ergonomics and Instrument Sharpening - Sharon Boutell
2.00pm - 5.00pm - Posterior Restorations a Predictable Approach - Paulette Smith
2.00pm - 5.00pm - Advanced Techniques in Treating Periodontal Defects and Furcation Lesions - Tabitha Acret
2.00pm - 5.00pm - LA Tips and Techinque
4.00pm - 5.30pm - Bright Smiles, Bright Future - Dr Katherine Kaczmarczyk
4.00pm - 6.30pm - Conference Registration Opens
Conference Agenda
Friday 27th June
7.45am - Registration Open
8.30am - Welcome - Launching NZOHA New Member Benefit
8.45am - The Importance of Sleep, Preventing Burnout - Michael Hempseed, Honours Degree in Psychology
9.45am - Morning Tea
10.15am - Teeth For Life “ From First Tooth to Golden Smiles” - Paulette Smith DT
11.15am - Dr Mo Al-Dujaili, BDS Otago,DClinDent,MRACDS-Orth,MOrthRCSEd
12.15pm - Lunch
1.15pm - What the Sugar - Dr Rob Beaglehole, BDS Otago,MDPH
2.15pm - Exploring The Science And Art of Teeth Whitening. Dr Katherine Kaczmarczyk, MChD BChD BSc BSc(hons) MFDS FHEA
3.15pm - Afternoon tea
3.45pm - Hormones and The Impact On The Periodontium - Tabitha Acret, Dental Hygienist. BOH, Grad Cert Public Health, MSc Advanced Hygiene
4.45pm - NZOHA Presentations
5.10pm - President's Shout
Saturday 28th June
8:30am - Oral Irrigators - Farzana Sarkisova OHT, Abstract Presentation
8:45am - Oral health Practitioner Workforce In Australia: Implications and Future Challenges - CJ Williams OHT, Oral Presentation
9.00am - Perio in Practice - Dr Reena Wadia, Founder & CEO of RW Perio, Perio School & By Dr Reena, Specialist Periodontist London, Author
10.00am - Morning Tea
10.30am -Beyond the Gut: Expanding Probiotic knowledge and applications for Dental Professionals - Stephen Brunton
11.30am - Join The Mobile Dentistry Movement - Shida Taheri, BOH in Dental Hygiene NSW, Co-Director of Mobile Dental Providers & Jacquie Biggar, Oral Health Therapist, Academic, Sydney University, Founder of Senior Dental Care, Co-Director of Mobile Dental Providers
12.30pm - Lunch
1.30pm - Understanding Neurodiversity - Micheal Hempseed, Honours Degree in Psychology
2.30pm - The Power to Inform: The Art of Explanation in Communication - Dr Elizabeth Milford, BDSc (Qld), MBA (MBS)
3.30pm - Afternoon tea
4.00pm - Incorporating Botox into Dentistry - Dr Yvonne Yung, BDS Otago,FICCDE
4.45pm - Closing
SPEAKERS
We are excited to present the following speakers
Dr Reena Wadia
BDS Hons (Lond) MJDF RCS (Eng) MClinDent (Perio) MPerio RCS (Edin) FHEA
Perio in Practice
Periodontal disease remains one of the most prevalent yet often underestimated conditions in dentistry. With evolving guidelines, increasing medicolegal scrutiny, and stronger links between gum health and systemic health, staying ahead is no longer optional - it’s essential. Join Dr Reena Wadia, leading gum specialist, for a high-energy session designed to transform the way you approach periodontics in daily practice. This whistlestop tour will cover the full perio patient journey, from diagnosis and treatment planning to achieving predictable non-surgical outcomes. Expect real-world tips and tricks to improve patient compliance, enhance clinical results, and streamline perio management in your practice. We’ll also dive into some of the hottest topics in periodontology, including:
✔ The latest perio classification - what you really need to know
✔ Key strategies for driving patient motivation and long-term adherence
✔ Predictable techniques for non-surgical therapy that actually work This session will leave you with practical insights to implement immediately.
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your perio game and future-proof your practice!
Dr Mo Al- Dujaili
BDS Otago, DClinDent,MRACDS-Orth,MOrthRCSEd
Developmental Abnormalities
Dr Rob Beaglehole
BDS Otago,MDPH
What The Sugar
As a battle hardened advocate Rob will discuss why sugar is the new tobacco. From his professional experience as a clinical dentist and public health advocate he will be sharing advocacy techniques that can be utilised to tackle the sugar industry. He will also highlight the urgent need for all oral health professionals to engage with leaders to enact policies that improve both oral and general health.
Michael Hempseed
Honours Degree in Psychology
Importance Of Sleep, Preventing Burnout
Understanding Neurodiversity Everyone’s brain is unique and many brains function, in quite similar ways meaning they are neurotypical. However, around 20% of the population, have ‘neurodiverse brains,’ meaning their brains function differently. Common neurodiverse conditions include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and many more. This talk will help you to understand both the strengths and challenges of neurodiverse people. -What are autism, ADHD, head injuries and dyslexia? -What are some of the most effective ways you can help someone with neurodiversity to feel safe and calm? -What are sensory issues and how can you help someone who may have them? The Importance of Sleep and Preventing Burnout When we think about the pillars of health, we often think about eating well and exercising. Scientists are discovering good sleep may be twice as important as those things. -Why is good sleep so important to well-being? - What is burnout and how does it affect someone? -Why is there a strong link between poor sleep and suicide? What can you do to ensure you get good sleep that will help you to wake up feeling energised?
Understanding Neurodiversity
Everyone’s brain is unique and many brains function, in quite similar ways meaning they are neurotypical. However, around 20% of the population, have ‘neurodiverse brains,’ meaning their brains function differently. Common neurodiverse conditions include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and many more. This talk will help you to understand both the strengths and challenges of neurodiverse people. -What are autism, ADHD, head injuries and dyslexia? -What are some of the most effective ways you can help someone with neurodiversity to feel safe and calm? -What are sensory issues and how can you help someone who may have them?
Dr Yvonne Yung
BDS Otago,FICCDE
When Aesthetics and Oral Health Align: Botox in Dentistry
As the boundaries between aesthetic medicine and oral healthcare continue to soften, the role of botulinum toxin (Botox) in dentistry is gaining well-deserved recognition. Once reserved for cosmetic enhancement, Botox has emerged as a valuable adjunct in the dental field, offering both functional relief and aesthetic refinement. This presentation will provide a foundational overview of how botulinum toxin supports both oral health and facial harmony, and how it intersects with preventive care, patient education, and collaborative treatment planning. Attendees will explore how subtle facial changes can influence smile design, patient confidence, and treatment outcomes—and how to communicate these benefits effectively and ethically.
Dr Elizabeth Milford
BDSc (Qld), MBA (MBS)
The Power to Inform: The Art of Explanation in Communication
Patients attend with their own history and ideas. Lately though, these ideas are becoming increasingly diverse. This presentation looks at thosesocial changes, and how to respond to them on an individual level to enable patient-centred care. Through an understanding of behaviour change interventions, participants will learn the skills required to influence patients towards great oral health outcomes.
Tabitha Acret
Dental Hygienist. BOH, Grad Cert Public Health, MSc Advanced Hygiene
Menopause and Oral Health
Menopause marks a significant hormonal transition in a woman’s life, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55, and it can have profound effects on oral health. The decline in estrogen levels during this period is linked to a range of oral changes, including dry mouth (xerostomia), burning mouth syndrome, altered taste, and an increased risk of periodontal disease and tooth loss. Salivary flow may be reduced, affecting the mouth’s natural defense mechanisms and contributing to an increased risk of dental caries and oral infections such as candidiasis. Changes in bone density, may also impact the stability of teeth and the success of dental implants. Moreover, the inflammatory response can become heightened, exacerbating gum disease. Menopausal women may also experience a decrease in collagen production, affecting the integrity of oral soft tissues. Oral health professionals play a critical role in identifying and managing these changes by providing tailored preventive care, patient education, and interdisciplinary support. Raising awareness about the oral-systemic link during menopause can empower women to maintain better oral and overall health during this important life stage.
Dr Katherine Kaczmarczyk
MChD BChD BSc BSc(hons) MFDS FHEA
Bright Futures Bright Smiles sponsored by Colgate
Join Dr Kat in exploring the science and art of teeth whitening. This presentation will cover the fundamental mechanisms behind effective teeth whitening and considerations for successful case selection. Attendees will gain an in-depth understanding of how different whitening agents achieve their effects, and will explore different methods of application, including Colgate's latest innovations in whitening. Participants will leave equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical strategies for optimising whitening outcomes. Key Learning Outcomes: Explore whitening fundamentals: Gain a thorough understanding of the mechanisms behind teeth whitening and how different whitening agents achieve their effects. Differentiate between whitening agents: Learn about the differences between hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, and PAP (phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid). Considerations in case selection: Identify the essential considerations and best practices for selecting appropriate cases and ensuring effective tailored whitening treatment. And Delivering our Bright Smiles, Bright Futures Masterclass
Stephen Brunton
Professional Development Lead, BioGaia
Beyond the Gut: Expanding Probiotic knowledge and applications for Dental Professionals sponsored by BioGaia
This educational session explores the expanding role of probiotics beyond gut health, focusing on emerging applications in oral care. Dental Professionals will learn about the latest research, patient counseling strategies, and practical applications to enhance their clinical practice and patient outcomes.
Key Learning Objectives would include:
- Understand the latest research on probiotics in the area of oral care
- Identify and recommend appropriate probiotic strains for various patient needs
- Integrate evidence-based probiotic recommendations into routine dental practice
- Evaluate the safety, efficacy, and quality of probiotic products for diverse patient populations.
Paulette Smith
Dental Therapist
Teeth For Life “ From First Tooth to Golden Smiles” sponsored by GC
Teeth For Life “ From First Tooth to Golden Smiles” "Teeth for life"; embodies a commitment to proactive lifelong dental care and patient well being. Aiming not only for beautiful and functional smiles but also for the prevention of dental problems that could compromise overall health and well-being. Disease progression evolves in stages throughout life, this lecture will offer insights into preventive and direct restorative approaches that align with the “Teeth For Life” concept. Emphasising the importance of implementing appropriate preventive strategies to avert and manage the progression of disease along with restoring teeth with a conservative approach in order to maximise longevity.
Jacquie Biggar
Oral Health Therapist, Academic, Sydney University, Founder of Senior Dental Care, Co-Director of Mobile Dental Providers
Join the mobile dentistry movement sponsored by NSK
Mobile dentistry is transforming oral health care, delivering essential services to those unable to access traditional clinics. This lecture explores the incredible opportunities to serve priority populations—while expanding your practice and enhancing job satisfaction. Discover innovative business models, from preventative care to full-service solutions, and the critical role of referral pathways in comprehensive care. Learn how mobile dentistry offers a unique chance to diversify your career, meet community needs, and make a lasting impact.
Join us to explore this rewarding and rapidly evolving field!
Shida Taheri
BOH in Dental Hygiene NSW, Co-Director of Mobile Dental Providers
Join The Mobile Dentistry Movement sponsored by NSK
Mobile dentistry is transforming oral health care, delivering essential services to those unable to access traditional clinics. This lecture explores the incredible opportunities to serve priority populations—while expanding your practice and enhancing job satisfaction. Discover innovative business models, from preventative care to full-service solutions, and the critical role of referral pathways in comprehensive care. Learn how mobile dentistry offers a unique chance to diversify your career, meet community needs, and make a lasting impact.
Join us to explore this rewarding and rapidly evolving field!
Farzana Sarkisova
Oral Health Therapist
Abstract Presentation - Oral Irrigators
Oral irrigators have been used in oral home care for more than 60 years, and while they have recently been included in clinical guidelines for the management of periodontitis and peri-implant diseases, their full potential remains unclear. This presentation summarises existing evidence on oral irrigation devices, including their role in managing periodontal inflammation and their ability to access hard-to-reach areas. It will also discuss key gaps in current knowledge on oral irrigators, such as their mechanism of action and biofilm removal effectiveness. The presentation will briefly introduce an ongoing clinical trial addressing some of the existing gaps, including the clinical and microbiological effects of oral irrigation in individuals with periodontitis and the acceptance of these devices. This session will provide attendees with an understanding of what is currently known about oral irrigators, highlight the areas that require further investigation, and discuss the implications of existing evidence and potential future technological advancements for clinical practice.
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Carlson-Jones (CJ) Williams
Oral Health Therapist
Oral health practitioner workforce in Australia: implications and future challenges
Background: Current literature indicates workforce shortages and impacts from the retiring Dental therapy workforce in Australia. Dental Therapists (DTs) predominantly provide care in public health and community settings. However, the cessation of their training programs leads to concerns about the sustainability of this workforce.
Aim: The aim of this study is to explore the workforce characteristics of Australian Oral Health Professionals (OHPs), specifically focusing on estimating the retirement rates of DTs. Method: Data from Wave One of the Australian Oral Health Workforce Study was used in the analysis. Descriptive statistics of OHP characteristics and a survival analysis was used to estimate the expected time until the existing level of DTs declines to 50% and 10%. A proportional hazards model was utilised for the analysis and Kaplan-Meier plot visualised the expected reduction in DTs.
Results: DTs were found to work predominately in outer regional areas, had the highest proportion in the 50 + years age range (75.1%), and had the highest rate of seeking a career change (48.5%). The current DT workforce was estimated to retire by the year 2040. Discussion: Given a large proportion of DTs work in regional areas, this decline could exacerbate access issues for underserved populations. Expanded scope-of-practice models and targeted recruitment should be considered to maintain equitable oral healthcare access.
Conclusion: The disbandment of DT education programs has resulted in the projected cessation of this dental workforce in Australia by 2040. Further research on dental service delivery across Australia by the OHP workforce is warranted.
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CALL FOR ABSTRACTS
Oral Presentation & Poster
The conference committee is now calling for abstracts for oral presentations (15 minutes) and poster presentations. Practitioners, researchers, and students are encouraged to share their research outputs related to oral health. Research with preliminary findings is accepted for consideration.
Presentation Instructions
Oral presentations:
The presentation is for 15 minutes.
The presentation slide must be in Microsoft PowerPoint.
The presentation slide must be submitted by the deadline (June 23, 2025).
The presentation should target the conference audience.
Poster Presentations:
The poster size must be 36 inches x 48 inches (colour, portrait orientation).
The presenter should print and bring it for display.
The conference committee will NOT print them for quality assurance issues.
Abstract Guidelines
Title:
The title should be informative and contain the major keywords.
Authors & Affiliations: Authors' Full names should be listed with affiliations.
Body: The body of the abstract should be no more than 250 words. This should be a summary of the research to be presented. Subheadings can be used.
Other Information
The conference committee offers support to presenters preparing for successful oral presentations by organising an online practice session with a panel.
After the session, feedback will be provided to help tailor the presentations to better suit the audience.
This support is available as an option when submitting presentation proposals.
Important Dates and Deadlines:
January 13, 2025 – Abstract submission opens
May 18, 2025 (11.59 pm NZT) – Abstract submission closes
May 30, 2025 – Outcome notifications to presenters (can be earlier)
June 8, 2025 – Presenter registration deadline
June 23, 2025 – Presentation slide deadline (online presentations only)
Terms and Conditions:
All co-authors should consent for the research to be presented.
All presenters (oral presentations and poster presentations) must attend the conference physically. The presenter does not have to be the primary researcher.
For oral presentations, up to two presenters are allowed.
One person can only be a presenter for one oral presentation. But they can be co-authors for multiple oral presentations.
There is no limitation on poster presentations.
If the abstract is accepted, the executive committee has permission to share the abstract or its parts in printed and/or electronic formats.
Failure to register by the deadline will result in automatic withdrawal from presenting.
For any questions regarding the process, please contact engagement@nzoha.org.nz.
SPONSORS
Thank you to our event sponsors
Platinum Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Supporting Sponsor
Speaker & Masterclass Sponsor
Masterclass Sponsor
Speaker Sponsor
Workshop Sponsor
Seat Drop Sponsor
New Zealand Oral Health Practitioner Awards 2025
NZOHA wishes to honor oral health practitioners who demonstrate a strong dedication to oral health care. We want to acknowledge our members who are exceeding expectations and setting higher standards for our respective professions. While our members may be modest and not seek recognition, these awards are essential in ensuring that the wider oral health community and health sector recognize the valuable work of our professions.
Do you know someone who is a trailblazer in your field? Or is it you? Are you an outstanding oral health practitioner? Are you a shining light guiding future professionals? Do you go above and beyond what is required of ‘just your job’?
Nominations are now closed. Nominees will be announced soon.
Award categories
NZOHA Emerging Oral Health Professional Award - Celebrating rising stars in oral health with 1-7 years of professional experience who demonstrate strong clinical and leadership skills early in their careers.
NZOHA Oral Health Practitioner of the Year Award – Recognizing excellence in clinical care, education, research, advocacy and community service.
Hon. Dame Annette King Award for Excellence in Leadership and Oral Health– Honouring a practitioner with exceptional leadership, innovation, and significant contributions to oral health advancement.
